Meat is the default option on many menus. What if the tables were turned?
out to other hospitals in the region, with tweaks based on patient feedback. And the project has inspired at least one other hospital system in Canada to follow suit.
The success of these initiatives suggests that making plant-based options the default can lead to healthier, happier diners, reduce environmental impact, and even save money. But how can individuals advocate for more plant-based defaults in their own communities?
Cantrell suggests starting small, like requesting plant-based options at your workplace or child’s school. Sharing information about the health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets can also help raise awareness and encourage others to make similar requests.
As more institutions and businesses adopt plant-based defaults, the hope is that this shift will become the new norm, making it easier for everyone to choose healthier, more sustainable options. And who knows? You might just discover a new favorite dish along the way.
